Couple of flat top questions...

**Rob Powell** · Jan-18-2005, 9:12pm

Just got some nice wood and some plans for a flat top. The plans are nice for the overall shape and bracing patterns but lack a few details..such as the top and back thickness

I know a few of you build flat tops and I plan on using an induced arch so I was wondering how thin to make the top and back as well as what radius to use for the braces. I don't want to have the whole thing collapse on me after making it...

It just might make me cry

The back will be hard maple and the top is some aged engelmann.

Last question, what do you use to hold the top to the bracing while the glue is drying? Forgive an aspiring builder his ignorance please....

Thanks !

**Luthier** · Jan-19-2005, 3:33am

My top thickness will vary slightly depending upon the type of wood and stiffness of the material being used. I like to keep it somewhere between .100" and .130". My radius on the "X" bracing is about 12' with a half lap joint in the middle and some clamps will suffice while the glue is drying. Here is a picture from my instructions.

Don

**Rob Powell** · Jan-19-2005, 7:31am

Thanks Don...guess I shoulda bought your plans, doh!

**dave17120** · Feb-18-2005, 3:40am

Hi, just noticed your question about flattop thickness and bracing, are you still in the market for info, as I am one of the 'few who make them'? I have some pics, and no special equipment other than clamps.
Dave